Audi drops Manual in "S" models in Europe but keeps it in US?!
11-08-2011, 08:06 AM
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Audi drops Manual in "S" models in Europe but keeps it in US?!
11-08-2011, 08:23 AM
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It's interesting because as far as I know, there are a lot more manual cars in Europe and people who know how to drive manual cars. But that doesn't necessarily mean the Europeans in general PREFER manual? Anyways, I think it's kinda cool to see a company do something like this for those "enthusiasts." Thumbs up in my book. 
11-08-2011, 08:29 AM
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It's interesting because as far as I know, there are a lot more manual cars in Europe and people who know how to drive manual cars. But that doesn't necessarily mean the Europeans in general PREFER manual? Anyways, I think it's kinda cool to see a company do something like this for those "enthusiasts." Thumbs up in my book.
11-08-2011, 09:47 AM
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I don't understand it either. Audi has invested a ton of money into DSG gearboxes and the performance numbers back up the claims that its a "better" choice. Given the sales numbers in the US (Manual vs Auto) across the board - from econo cars to supercars - automatic is king in the sales department.
Now the TT-RS (US version) its only available with the 6 speed manual - which is awesome IMO - but seemingly a step backwards as far as tech/brand image/performance/whatever. However, looking at a company like Ferrari - the majority of sales are F1 transmissions. The 458 isn't even available with a manual, the 599 is EXTREMELY rare with a 6M (although available), and the new FF is strictly paddles as well. Over 50% of Corvettes sales are automatic. Same with Nissan Z cars.
I suppose it's like a last "hoo-rah" for the company to still offer manuals stateside - get em while you can. Oh - and that new S5 is f@#king SALACIOUS!
Now the TT-RS (US version) its only available with the 6 speed manual - which is awesome IMO - but seemingly a step backwards as far as tech/brand image/performance/whatever. However, looking at a company like Ferrari - the majority of sales are F1 transmissions. The 458 isn't even available with a manual, the 599 is EXTREMELY rare with a 6M (although available), and the new FF is strictly paddles as well. Over 50% of Corvettes sales are automatic. Same with Nissan Z cars.
I suppose it's like a last "hoo-rah" for the company to still offer manuals stateside - get em while you can. Oh - and that new S5 is f@#king SALACIOUS!
11-08-2011, 09:51 AM
#6
Interestingly enough, Road and Track had to get a new transmission in their 2011 S4 long term test car....with less than 22K miles on it. 
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11-09-2011, 06:24 AM
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11-09-2011, 06:30 AM
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Yup. Honestly, I love the S4 - it's a great machine - but the occasional major problems just scare the tar out of me. If I bought one, it'd have to have an extended warranty (or CPO or whatever).
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